Ocho Rios Waterfalls: Blue Hole & Dunn’s River Tour Pickup

Summary

Experience Jamaica’s waterfalls with hotel pickup included

You’ll swim in bright blue pools at Blue Hole near Ocho Rios, swing on ropes with local guides cheering you on, hike up to Secret Falls through lush forest, then climb Dunn’s River Falls hand-in-hand with new friends. Hotel pickup is included so you can just show up ready for adventure—and maybe get your heart racing more than once.

What’s the experience like?

“You sure you want to jump from here?” That’s what our Blue Hole guide, Devon, asked me — and honestly, I wasn’t sure. The water below was this wild shade of turquoise, almost glowing against the tangled green of the rainforest. There was a faint smell of wet leaves and something sweet in the air (mangoes maybe?), and the sound of everyone laughing echoed off the rocks. I took a breath and just went for it. Cold shock, then pure adrenaline — I think I yelled something embarrassing on the way down.

We’d started out from our Runaway Bay hotel that morning, still half asleep as we piled into the minibus. The drive along the north coast was all flashes of blue sea and little roadside fruit stands — our driver pointed out where he gets his favorite jerk chicken (“not for tourists,” he said with a grin). At Blue Hole, Devon showed us how to swing on these ropes like some kind of jungle Tarzan. My grip was terrible but nobody cared; even when I slipped into the pool too early, everyone just cheered. After that, we hiked up through muddy paths to Secret Falls — not really a secret if you’re following a group of giggling kids, but still felt hidden somehow.

Dunn’s River Falls was next. It’s busy — lots of families and couples holding hands in these human chains as they climb up together. Our falls guide, Marcia, kept shouting encouragements (“Don’t let go now!”), and at one point she stopped us under this heavy curtain of water she called “the massage parlour.” It actually did feel like someone pounding your shoulders after a long day. The limestone steps were slippery but cool underfoot; I lost my sandal for a minute but Marcia fished it out with her stick. There are spots where you can just sit in a pool and watch everyone else struggle up — which honestly looked tempting after a while.

I didn’t expect to feel so connected to strangers by the end — maybe it’s something about sharing cold water shocks or just laughing at yourself in front of people you’ll never see again. On the ride back to Runaway Bay I kept thinking about that first jump at Blue Hole. Still makes my stomach flip when I remember it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Blue Hole and Dunn's River Falls tour

• Drive along north coast to Blue Hole
• Enjoy swimming and jumping at Blue Hole
• Hike to Secret Falls
• Take photos at Secret Falls
• Travel to Dunn's River Falls
• Climb Dunn's River Falls with guide
• Stop at pools for photos and rest
• Experience water massage at falls
• Finish climb and relax at terrace

Top questions

How far is Blue Hole from Runaway Bay?

It takes about 1 hour by car from Runaway Bay hotels to reach Blue Hole near Ocho Rios.

Is hotel pickup included for this waterfall tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off from most Runaway Bay hotels is included in your booking.

How long does it take to climb Dunn's River Falls?

The full climb takes around 1 hour 30 minutes from beach to top, with stops along the way.

Are guides provided at both Blue Hole and Dunn's River Falls?

Yes, local guides lead you at both sites—helping with safety and photos if needed.

What should I wear or bring for this tour?

Wear comfortable walking shoes or water shoes; bring swimwear and a waterproof camera if you like.

Can children join this waterfall combo tour?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult; strollers are allowed for infants.

Is lunch included in this day trip?

No lunch is included; only transport, entry fees, and guides are covered.

Are there professional photographers at the waterfalls?

Yes, photographers are available onsite but you can also use your own waterproof camera.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from most Runaway Bay hotels, all entrance tickets for Blue Hole & Secret Falls plus Dunn’s River Falls, skip-the-line access where needed, an experienced local driver-guide throughout the journey, plus friendly falls guides who help with safety (and photos) at each stop before returning you comfortably back to your hotel.